Expert: Paula Damgaard - 4/5/2005

Question
My step mother, age 82, has always had a very sharp mind and excellent memory. There have been several instances lately where she either "remembered" something that did not happen, or she remembered it incorrectly. She got very angry when I tried to help her recall what really happened. The subjects we were talking about were minor, and not worth aruging about, so I let it go. But this is so out of character for her that I am worried. Is this a sign of dementia or is she just being old and cranky?

Answer
Hi Jo, Sorry it has taken me so long to respond. I have been out of town.  

My advice to you is to take her to her doctor and insist that she get a full physical.  Making sure that there isn't something work with her physically.  It is not normal for someone to change the way you are talking about.  IF her physician dismisses you then bring her somewhere else.  She should also have a full battery of Neuropsych tests to see if all areas of her brain are working.  This will at least give you a baseline to start from.  It will also answer all of your questions.  

I hope they don't find her to be demented but if they do finding out early will help all of you.  Good luck Paula